Puisaye

Puisaye is a historical and geographical region located in north-central France, primarily spanning the departments of Yonne and a small part of Loiret. It is characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous ponds and streams, giving it a picturesque and somewhat wild landscape. Historically, Puisaye was a viscounty, a significant feudal territory, and its strategic importance is reflected in the presence of several castles and fortifications, such as the Château de Saint-Fargeau and the Château de Guédelon.

The economy of Puisaye has traditionally been based on agriculture, with a focus on cereals, livestock, and forestry. More recently, tourism has become an increasingly important sector, attracted by its natural beauty, historical sites, and its association with the writer Colette, who spent a significant part of her life in the region and set some of her works there. The artisanal tradition also persists, with local crafts and gastronomy being notable features. The Guédelon Castle project, a living history reconstruction of a 13th-century castle built using traditional methods, has gained international recognition and draws many visitors to the area. The region's name is believed to derive from the Latin "puteus," meaning well, likely referring to the abundance of water sources.